Students at Gloucester High School in Massachusetts got a unique chance to experience the history of the Battle of Gloucester firsthand. Reenactors spent the day at the school, bringing the battle to life and helping students connect with a pivotal moment in their community’s history.
Reenactment Details
Ruth Hodges, portraying a townsperson, said, ‘Really, we’re here to kind of take you back to the 18th century, specifically to 1775. I think it’s really important to tell the whole story.’ Students heard from a colonial militiaman, a sailor showing off his gear, and a townsperson describing the panic after a British warship entered Gloucester Harbor.
The battle began when British Naval Captain John Linzee tried to seize two schooners, chasing one into Gloucester Harbor. In a decisive blow to the Royal Navy, the colonial militia emerged victorious. Michael Graves, portraying Captain Linzee, said, ‘So at the end of the day, I end up having to leave empty handed. I’ve lost 30 men, I’ve lost both of my prize ships, and so I’m not exactly very happy.’
Impact on Students
These presentations really allow students to dive into their local history. Dave Pleuler, a history teacher, said, ‘I think the one thing is that this battle actually takes place here in Gloucester, and it certainly shows what the citizens of Gloucester did that day, that they were able to repulse this British invasion on our soil.’ The school hosted a similar event last year ahead of the Battle of Bunker Hill reenactment, and teachers say it was a big hit, so they were eager to bring the program back.
Shaun Goulart, social studies program leader, said, ‘In the classroom, we do a great job at engaging them, but there’s only so much you can do in the classroom. So to bring real life figures, reenactors, people that are obviously experts in their craft, it really, really enriches the whole thing, and the kids really enjoy it.’ The Battle of Gloucester reenactment is scheduled for June 20-21 at Stage Fort Park in Gloucester.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
